Alligator Hunting

Private Lands

A resident alligator hunter must either own land or have permission to hunt alligators on land that is classified as wetland habitat in order to qualify for alligator harvest tags. LDWF issues harvest tags for property containing sufficient alligator habitat capable of sustaining an alligator harvest. Alligator hunters apply for alligator tags prior to the season. An alligator hunter license applicant must submit the following:

A landowner's signature indicating permission for the hunter to harvest alligators on the property

If applicable, a legal alligator hunting lease may be submitted.

Individuals interested in obtaining alligator harvest information on private lands (what is considered alligator habitat, does my property qualify for alligator tags, requirements, etc.) should contact the corresponding office/biologist responsible for administering alligator harvests on private lands for the parish in which the property is located (see map and contact information).

Click to enlarge.

Resident alligator hunting licenses cost $25. There is no charge for alligator tags.

Residents not possessing or having permission to harvest alligators on private lands or public lands/lakes can harvest alligators as an alligator sport hunter while accompanied by a guide.

Nonresidents can only harvest alligators as an alligator sport hunter while accompanied by a guide.

A guide must be an alligator hunter possessing tags. An alligator Sport Hunter License costs $25 for Louisiana residents and $150 for nonresidents.

Public Lands and Lakes

Residents not possessing or having permission to harvest alligators on private lands may be able to harvest alligators on public lands or lakes. These public lands/lakes are managed by many different entities ranging from local parish governments to federal government agencies. Alligator hunters are selected for these areas through bidding and lotteries.

LDWF's Lottery Alligator Harvest Program provides more than 300 resident alligator hunters the opportunity to harvest approximately 800 alligators on almost 40 WMAs/public lakes located throughout the state. Lottery applications are available mid to late May of each year.

Resident alligator hunting licenses cost $25. There is no charge for alligator tags issued to non-lottery alligator hunters. Lottery alligator hunters may be required to pay a set fee per alligator tag issued. These fees are in lieu of payments normally made to LDWF for the value of alligators harvested.

Residents not possessing or having permission to harvest alligators on private lands or public lands/lakes can harvest alligators as an alligator sport hunter while accompanied by a guide.

Nonresidents can only harvest alligators as an alligator sport hunter while accompanied by a guide.

A guide must be an alligator hunter possessing tags. An alligator Sport Hunter License costs $25 for Louisiana residents and $150 for nonresidents.